Stone Settings 101: A Guide to the Most Popular Ways to Set Your Gems

When choosing or designing a custom engagement ring, wedding ring, necklace, earrings or any other jewelry piece at Everglow Jewelry, selecting the right stone setting is just as important as choosing the gemstone itself. The setting not only affects the overall look and style of your jewelry but also plays a critical role in how well your diamond, moissanite, or gemstone is protected.

Whether you're considering custom earrings, a diamond engagement ring, a tennis bracelet, or gemstone pendant, here’s a breakdown of the most popular stone setting types and how they work.

1. Prong Setting

The most classic and widely used setting style, prong settings use small metal claws to hold the gemstone in place. Typically used for solitaire engagement rings, this setting allows maximum light to pass through the stone, enhancing brilliance.

• Best for: Diamonds, moissanite, and other faceted gemstones

• Common styles: 4-prong and 6-prong

• Pros: Maximum sparkle

• Cons: Less protection for the sides of the stone

2. Claw Prongs

Claw prongs are a variation of traditional prongs with pointed or tapered tips, resembling a claw. These add a touch of drama and elegance while still showcasing the stone prominently.

• Best for: Fancy cut diamonds and high-end custom rings

• Visual benefit: Sleek, modern appearance

3. 4-Prong vs. 6-Prong Settings

• 4-prong: Offers a more open view of the gemstone with slightly less security

• 6-prong: Provides extra stability and protection, especially ideal for larger center stones

• Everglow Tip: We often recommend 6-prong settings for high-value or sentimental stones for added peace of mind.

4. Bezel Setting

In a bezel setting, a thin rim of metal wraps around the gemstone, keeping it securely in place. It’s one of the most protective settings and perfect for active lifestyles.

• Best for: Everyday rings, minimalist jewelry, watches

• Pros: Extremely secure, modern and sleek

• Cons: Slightly less sparkle compared to prong settings

5. Flush Setting

Also known as a gypsy setting, the stone is set flush with the surface of the metal. This setting style is extremely durable and often used in men’s wedding bands or custom bracelets.

• Best for: Smaller stones or accent diamonds

• Pros: Great for active wearers, snag-free

• Cons: Less light enters the stone

6. Channel Setting

Perfect for stackable rings or eternity bands, channel settings suspend stones between two parallel metal walls without prongs.

• Best for: Diamonds or gemstones in a row

• Pros: Sleek, secure, ideal for wedding rings

• Cons: More challenging to resize

7. Bead or Pavé Setting

Pavé settings involve small gemstones set closely together, held in place by tiny metal beads. This creates a “paved” look and adds shimmering detail.

• Best for: Accent stones on bands or halos

• Pros: Adds sparkle, elegant texture

• Cons: More delicate and prone to wear

8. Tension Setting

In a tension setting, the stone is held in place by the pressure of the metal band itself. It gives the illusion that the stone is floating.

• Best for: Modern, unique engagement rings

• Pros: Sleek and innovative design

• Cons: Requires exact stone dimensions, harder to resize

9. Bar Setting

Similar to a channel setting but each stone is held between vertical metal bars. Often seen in bracelets, eternity bands, or custom necklaces.

• Best for: Side stones, straight-line designs

• Pros: Secure and modern look

• Cons: Minimal light entry on the sides

10. Micro Pavé

Micro pavé settings use ultra-small diamonds set in intricate patterns, usually with magnification tools. It’s a favorite for lab-grown diamond rings and custom engagement rings.

• Best for: Halo rings, designer looks

• Pros: Incredible sparkle, high-end appeal

• Cons: Can be delicate over time

11. Pressure Setting

This setting uses pressure to hold stones closely together without prongs or bezels, creating the illusion of a larger single diamond.

• Best for: Bold custom rings and statement pieces

• Pros: Impressive look without the price of a large stone

• Cons: Stones can loosen if not set perfectly

12. Invisible Setting

Stones are grooved and set side-by-side under the surface of the metal so no prongs are visible at all. This style is often seen in repurposed designer jewelry and luxury pieces.

• Best for: Princess cut diamonds and square shapes

• Pros: Seamless surface of sparkle

• Cons: Difficult to repair if stones fall out

13. Illusion Setting

Used to make a small stone appear larger, illusion settings feature a reflective metal base that enhances the stone’s perceived size and brilliance.

• Best for: Budget-conscious designs

• Pros: Cost-effective way to amplify sparkle

• Cons: May not suit those seeking a natural, minimal look

Final Thoughts

At Everglow Jewelry, we specialize in custom jewelry design in Tampa, helping clients choose the perfect stone setting for both style and security. Whether you’re selecting a lab-grown diamond, a moissanite ring, or designing an eco-friendly engagement ring, we’ll walk you through every setting style to find what works best for your life and taste.

Want to talk settings? Book a consultation or visit our Tampa Palms studio today.